Serene countryside and idyllic rural landscape of green fields, rolling hills and grazing sheep in the Glens of Antrim, Northern Ireland
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is renewing its call for responsible dog ownership ahead of the busy lambing season, following the release of new figures from NFU Mutual showing that farm animals in Northern Ireland worth an estimated £152,000 were severely injured or killed in dog attacks during 2025.
While the figures show a 30% decrease compared to the previous year, the UFU has stressed that even one attack is one too many, particularly at a time when pregnant ewes and newborn lambs are at their most vulnerable.
UFU deputy president John McLenaghan said the financial cost only tells part of the story, “Behind every figure is a farming family who has had to deal with the devastating aftermath of a dog attack. For many sheep farmers across Northern Ireland, lambing season is already an intense and demanding period. Discovering dead or injured animals following a dog attack is heartbreaking and deeply distressing. The £152,000 figure represents significant losses, but it does not capture the emotional toll, the trauma to livestock, or the long-term impact on flock performance.”
The UFU has repeatedly warned that livestock worrying remains a serious and persistent issue in Northern Ireland, with incidents reported across rural and semi-rural areas. In many cases, attacks occur when dogs are off lead, escape from gardens, or are allowed to roam unsupervised.
Mr McLenaghan continued, “Too many dog owners still believe their pet would never chase or harm livestock. The reality is very different. Regardless of breed or temperament, any dog can cause harm. Even if there is no physical contact, the stress alone can cause pregnant ewes to abort lambs or young lambs to become separated from their mothers. The responsibility lies firmly with dog owners. If you are walking in the countryside and there are sheep or cattle in nearby fields, your dog must be always kept on a lead and under control.”
The UFU is also urging members of the public to be mindful that livestock worrying is a criminal offence under Northern Ireland legislation. The Union has previously called for stronger enforcement and greater awareness of the consequences of irresponsible dog ownership and is currently working with other stakeholders on proposals to strengthen legislation.
Mr McLenaghan added, “We continue to engage with authorities and local councils to ensure incidents are reported and followed up appropriately. Where attacks happen, they must be reported to the local dog warden and the PSNI so that action can be taken. Farmers should not have to live with the fear of repeat attacks. Stronger awareness, responsible ownership and consistent enforcement are essential if we are to see meaningful progress.”
